- Use Social Media to Unite, Not Divide Nigeria – Tinubu Tells Youth
- Tinubu described digital media as a powerful force for transformation
- Gbajabiamila commended digital media professionals for defending Nigeria’s image
President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerian youth, particularly those active in digital media, to use their platforms for national development, unity, and economic growth rather than fueling division.
Eko Hot Blog reports that while speaking on Friday during the opening of the Progressives Digital Media Summit at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the President urged social media influencers, content creators, and tech innovators to promote verified information and positive values through their platforms.
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The summit, themed “Unveiling the Critical Role of New Media in National Development,” brought together key players from government and the digital space.
“Your generation has recognised this moment. You are using digital tools to innovate, educate, and demand accountability. But as your influence grows, so must our collective sense of purpose and responsibility,” Tinubu said.
“I urge you to continue using digital platforms to advance our nation’s progress. Build businesses that employ others. Create content that uplifts and unites. Use your influence to foster unity, not division.”
Describing digital media as a powerful force for transformation, the President praised the innovation and resilience of Nigerian youth who are reshaping the country’s future through technology and online engagement.
“From developing innovative apps to building vibrant online communities, you are demonstrating the determination that is changing the narrative about what is possible in Nigeria,” he added. “You are not waiting for the future, you are building it.”
President Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to growing Nigeria’s digital economy through initiatives like the National Digital Innovation Fund and supportive policies for startups. However, he cautioned against the dangers of misinformation, cybercrime, and unethical behavior online.
Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, commended digital media professionals for defending Nigeria’s image a mend promoting it globally.
“You are the vanguard of a reborn Nigeria, determined to reach for the stars. Under President Tinubu’s leadership, our nation has begun its long delayed march toward greatness. The road may be challenging, but it is necessary,” he said.
In his goodwill message, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, spoke on the evolving nature of digital communication, citing examples from the United States and Germany.
“Social media is not a fair battleground,” he noted. “It is chaotic, often unregulated, and saturated with divisive content. Deepfakes and AI generated misinformation are now common tools against political opponents. Posts are driven by clicks not facts. Misinformation spreads five times faster than the truth.”
He expressed hope that the summit would lead to stronger strategies for tackling fake news and safeguarding the quality of public discourse online.
Summit convener and Special Assistant to the President on New Media, Segun Dada, highlighted how digital platforms have rapidly evolved from personal tools to powerful drivers of national influence.
He stressed the need for responsible and ethical use of digital platforms, particularly in safeguarding data privacy, managing artificial intelligence, and fostering national cohesion.
